Did you know Seoul houses Korea’s first and oldest arboretum? We are standing at the Hongneung Arboretum. It is a place revered for its historical and cultural value. The Hongneung Arboretum was established in 1922. Its initial purpose was to support the study of Korean flora.
Imagine stepping back in time. Picture researchers studying native plants. They also studied plants foreign to Korea. Today, the Hongneung Arboretum systematically manages 2,035 species. This includes 1,224 trees and 811 herbs and plants. It is a treasure trove of plant genetic resources.
The Arboretum sits on the southwest side of Cheonjangsan Mountain. This mountain rises 141 meters. Empress Myeongseong’s royal tomb is also on these grounds. This adds to the Arboretum’s historical significance.
From Tuesday to Friday, the Hongneung Arboretum hosts a forest commentary guide program. Reservations are required. Open touring is available on weekends. Please note some restrictions. Parking is prohibited. Consumables like food and drink are not allowed. Pets and bicycles are also prohibited.
Since 1993, the Arboretum has been open on weekends. Locals can explore nature. They can learn about the environment. The Hongneung Arboretum serves as an ecological learning facility. Children and students visit during the week. They range from kindergarten through university.
The Hongneung Arboretum belongs to the National Institute of Forest Science. You might not see many signs for the Arboretum itself. But inside, you’ll discover many rare plants and flowers. It is a great place to relax within a busy city. All the trees and plants are labeled. They are labeled in Korean.
An Australian horticulturalist once visited. She loved seeing the Latin names she could understand. She appreciated the wide variety of trees and plants. These plants grow in a temperate climate.
Note that the Hongneung Arboretum is closed on Mondays. It is also closed on Labor Day and all legal holidays, excluding Sundays. It is closed on Saturdays or Sundays that coincide with legal holidays. The Arboretum provides facilities for the disabled. This includes accessible restrooms and parking.
The Hongneung Arboretum offers a peaceful escape. Come and experience nature’s beauty. Discover the rich history within these grounds. Take a relaxing walk and be captivated. The Hongneung Arboretum is waiting for you.